Vivian G. Moreira Komando
ART
Creative soul who incorporates social and environmental awareness into her classes. "Education hands the torch to the next generation."
B.S., M.S., Ph.D. Florida State University; John and Elizabeth Phillips Fellowship. Appointed 2005.

On Harkness Teaching: "The Harkness method is very exciting. Discussions take uncharted routes – how wonderful is that! It's a journey both for my students and for me. Everyone is present and on an equal footing. Everyone has the right to speak and express. No one is in the back of the room. There are no limits to the correct answer."

Why she loves to teach art: "I believe the arts not only record our cultural beliefs, but also promote an understanding of the human condition. The arts help us see the world through multiple perspectives, times and places." For Komando, the arts lead to knowledge and self-discovery. "I teach my students to look within at what comprises their creative souls. I hope to enable their personal expression, while also having them understand how others express themselves. I am constantly awed by what they create."

Favorite lesson: Komando started the Empty Bowl project, in which students create bowls that are sold to raise money for local hunger relief agencies. "This project wasn’t just about mastering ceramics techniques, but was about creating positive change within our community. The success of this lesson – from wheel throwing to the sale of the bowls – demonstrated to the students the power of hard work and dedication."

Passions: "My life revolves around my family, art, music and teaching. My passion for creating art leads me to investigate other artists, which helps drive my teaching. I love to share different artists and their work with my students, in the hope that they will become passionate about art, either as creators or appreciators. My love of music of all kinds adds to the spirit of creating."

Advice: "We are all looking for our place in the world and must freely discuss ways to make the world a better place. But, instead of words don’t be afraid to act."

Favorite quote: "You must be the change you wish to see in the world." -Mahatma Gandhi